VP Sara Duterte Calls for Stronger Climate Action as Global Warming and Climate Consciousness Week Opens

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte delivered a powerful message as the nation observes Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Month, calling for unity, preparedness, and stronger action to address the worsening climate crisis.

 

Opening her message with greetings in Arabic, Bisaya, and Filipino, the Vice President emphasized that climate change is no longer an abstract environmental issue—it is a daily reality affecting Filipino lives, especially the most vulnerable communities.

A Country With a Small Carbon Footprint, but Heavy Losses

 

VP Duterte reminded the public that while the Philippines contributes very little to global greenhouse gas emissions, it continues to carry a disproportionately heavy burden from the effects of climate change.

 

She highlighted that 15 typhoons have already struck the country this year, causing massive displacement, poverty, and destruction.

 

“These climate-related calamities test our resilience and readiness as families, as communities, and as a nation,” she said.

Climate Change as a Personal and National Responsibility

 

The Vice President urged Filipinos to recognize that climate change affects every aspect of life—the food we grow, the homes we build, the waters we depend on, and the future awaiting the next generation.

 

She encouraged Filipinos to be mindful of their choices:
 “How we consume, what we waste, how we build—each decision either deepens the challenge or helps us adapt.”

OVP Achieves 1 Million Trees Planted in 3 Years

 

In her speech, VP Duterte highlighted a major environmental milestone: The Office of the Vice President has planted one million trees across the country in just three years, fulfilling its commitment to strengthen natural defenses and fight the long-term impacts of climate change.

A Call to Local Governments and Filipino Families

 

VP Duterte urged local government units (LGUs) to place climate adaptation at the heart of development planning.
 This includes:

  • Protecting and rehabilitating forests, mangroves, rivers, and coastal ecosystems

  • Strengthening early warning systems

  • Ensuring communities are disaster-ready and climate-resilient

She also appealed to Filipino families to teach children the value of caring for the environment—minimizing waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and adopting sustainable habits.

A Commitment to the Future

 

The Vice President ended with a call for a shared commitment to safeguarding the country for future generations:
 “Let this month ignite a lasting commitment to a livable future.”

 

She concluded with a heartfelt message:
 “Mga kababayan, mahalin natin ang Pilipinas—para sa Diyos, sa Bayan, at sa bawat Pamilyang Pilipino. Shukran.”